Postcards: The Caverns of Sonora

Texas’ spectacular show cave celebrates 50 years of tours

Even though the fantastic geological formations inside the
Caverns of Sonora are the primary attraction, consider also that the cave is
cool in the summer: a steady 71 degrees. And this year, the Caverns celebrate
50 years of public tours. As one expert, George Veni, Executive Director of the
National Cave and Karst Research Institute in Carlsbad, New Mexico, explains,
these caverns, located in the southwest quadrant of the state, “are
internationally recognized as the most beautiful show cave on the planet."

You’ll find the Caverns of Sonora 15 miles southwest of
Sonora, off Interstate 10. The best driving route is to take Exit 392 south
onto RR 1989 (Caverns of Sonora Rd.), and follow the road signs. The Caverns
open daily, year-round, except Christmas Day; guided tours are offered
throughout the day. Special “adventure tours,” photography tours, and
large-group tours must be arranged in advance. The visitor center offers
fossils, rocks, books, and jewelry, as well as snacks (including homemade
fudge). RV and tent camping are available, along with potable water,
electricity, and restrooms with showers.

Caverns of Sonora staff will host a public celebration in
July to mark the 50th anniversary of the first public cave tours. For updates on the event or
details about the Caverns, including admission fees, call 325/387-3105 or
325/387-6507; www.cavernsofsonora.com.

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Published monthly by the Texas Department of Transportation, Texas Highways, the official travel magazine of Texas, encourages travel to and within the Lone Star State and tells the Texas story to readers around the world.